Colm Begley

[Lady Lawrence]

over to you - Beatnik & Warwick

[TheBrownDog]

Elevate this man!

[John]

Elevate this man!

Agree. I have sung the praises of this lad on this forum often. I had the pleasure of seeing him in the ressies a few times last year and he impressed me with his improvement from a novice who had never played the game to one of our better players in the Suncoast Lions. He has poise, is athletic, quick and is a very good left foot kick that is long and accurate. He is not scared to go in hard and can tackle well. I hope that he is elevated.

I have seen him interviewed on TV once or twice and he has a wicked sense of humour. I like him.

[Grimreepah]

Agree. I have sung the praises of this lad on this forum often.

I can see why now. He looked like he belonged didn't he. Got himself out of a few tricky situations with great composure. Did a few nice one-twos with team mates to free up space and his kicking skills are very very good. I think he will get elevated and I think he will play plenty of senior football this year.

[John]

http://www.griffith.edu.au/sport/profiles/img/colm2.jpg

Name: Colm Begley
Studying: Bachelor of Business
Background:
The remaining half of the Lions' Irish recruiting "experiment", Begley has previous experience playing in Australian after touring with an Ireland under-age side. Made a meteoric rise to senior ranks when he debuted against Melbourne in Round 2 of the 2006 NAB Cup against Melbourne - getting there even faster than his illustrious Irish predecessors Jim Stynes and Tadhg Kennelly. Seems likely to develop into a tall running defender or a mobile half-forward and his skills with the unfamiliar oval-shaped ball are progressing rapidly. Hails from Stradbally in County Laios (pronounced Leesh)
His Uni (http://www.griffith.edu.au/sport/profiles/content_colm.html) link. He is a bright lad as well.

[scott522]

I'm sponsoring Colm this year - met him just after he arrived from Ireland - my mum's family are from County Clare ... he is a truly lovely boy and so dedicated to learning the craft. Spoke to him a few weeks ago during one of the Community camp appearances. Very humble and deserving of the praise he is starting to get...

[danielcanberra]

I'm sponsoring Colm this year - met him just after he arrived from Ireland - my mum's family are from County Clare ... he is a truly lovely boy and so dedicated to learning the craft. Spoke to him a few weeks ago during one of the Community camp appearances. Very humble and deserving of the praise he is starting to get...

I spoke to Colm on Saturday and had mentioned I had thought about sponsoring him, but Shermo won out. Colm was cool. I said I was glad you are sponsoring him.

He is a fantastic person to talk to and like you said, he is a great lad (I would feel strange saying 'lovely boy' :p ).

[scott522]

you said, he is a great lad (I would feel strange saying 'lovely boy' :p ).

Being a mum, I can get away with that !!! :)

Did you talk to my other boy - Mikey ?

[danielcanberra]

Being a mum, I can get away with that !!! :)

Did you talk to my other boy - Mikey ?

Yes.

[TheBrownDog]

I'm sponsoring Colm this year - met him just after he arrived from Ireland - my mum's family are from County Clare ... he is a truly lovely boy and so dedicated to learning the craft. Spoke to him a few weeks ago during one of the Community camp appearances. Very humble and deserving of the praise he is starting to get...

How does that work at Sponsorship dinners?

You get two boys to yourself? ;)

[scott522]

in between the 2...greedy girl that i am !!!
last year was between not-rog and mikey, that was funny...with ash opposite and shermo to the left. plenty of laughs on that table...

[scott522]

From the Lions Website,

Show who the money?
By Simon White, for Brisbane Lions Football Club

News
It is less a case of "show me" than "show who?" the money, after the Brisbane Lions' Irish rookie Colm Begley roosted a supergoal in last week's NAB Cup semi-final win over Geelong.

NAB donates $1000 to the junior club of any player who kicks a supergoal during the pre-season competition. The only problem in Begley’s case is that he doesn't have an Australian junior club, having come direct from Ireland to the Lions in the 2005 rookie draft.

On Tuesday afternoon it was still no clearer who would benefit from Begley’s bomb. Begley himself, preparing for Saturday's NAB Cup grand final against Carlton, wasn’t overly concerned - although the likeable 20-year-old from County Laios said Stradbally, his original Gaelic club, would be his first choice for the donation.

"They wouldn't spend it over the bar or anything like that," Begley chuckled when asked what he thought Stradbally might do with the funds.

"If they get it I'd like to see them do something for the kids - whether that be a training camp, new kits or something with the facilities. The president of the club helped me out quite a bit when I was coming through the ranks and I'm sure he'd be able to put it to good use."

Something Begley has been putting to good use throughout the NAB Cup is the running ability he initially developed in the Gaelic game. When he first arrived at the Gabba in December 2005, most observers thought his future lay as a mobile defender, in the mould of his compatriot, Sydney star Tadhg Kennelly.

After a debut season spent learning the oval-balled game and several positions, he's happy to be settled in the back half of the field, where he can put his athleticism and endurance to good use.

"To begin with almost everyone thought I'd play at half-back. But during my first year I ended up playing a lot of positions - in the midfield and a bit at half-forward - and I didn't really have a set position," Begley explained.

"Last year, every game was an experience for me. But I'm happy now to have settled at half-back. I have my head around things and I know my role - I have a much better idea of what's going on out there than I did a year ago.

"Coming from a Gaelic background has definitely helped. Running, playing on and handballing is a big part of our game and it has probably made it easier to back myself. [Coach] Leigh [Matthews] has been encouraging me to run whenever I can and back myself."

Begley's supergoal was certainly evidence of just that. Streaming forward from defence, he left fly with a left-foot bomb from 55m that split the big sticks and gave his teammates a few chuckles.

"It was a great feeling. I didn't think it would go that far and then I thought it was probably going a bit too far to the left," he said.

"Then I looked up and realised it was actually going to go pretty close. All the boys came running in and they were pretty excited - getting around each other like that is something we've been looking to do a bit more of this year.

"There was a little bit of laughter afterwards when everyone realised what had happened."

Like the rest of his young Lions teammates, Begley is excited about the prospect of a first-ever NAB Cup joining the premiership cups in the Gabba trophy cabinet. The Lions have started underdogs in every round so far but Begley says the betting hasn't reflected the level of confidence in the playing group.

"It's a great feeling to be getting ready for a Grand Final. I've seen some of the video clips (of the premierships) and they are amazing," he said.

"Right from before the first game there was a really good vibe. And that's continued on - there is a really good atmosphere, it's a really united team and there is a lot of enjoyment every game.

"We've done well to get this far and hopefully on Saturday we can play the way we have been and execute well again. There is a lot pride in the Lions and it would be fantastic to win."

[Kochie 16]

The first glimps of Begg's last year vs. the eagles, was pretty average. (But i still remember Blacky's 2 goals in a minute, CLASSIC!) Anyway, he looked a LOT different this year in the NAB cup. He's been more constistant, plays with some more class and is shaping up to be a regular member of the 22.
Good on ya Beggs.

[TheBrownDog]

The first glimps of Begg's last year vs. the eagles, was pretty average.

He played a tagging role on Chris Judd and kept him to 10 possessions... you call that average?

[don vito of fitzroy]

Begley has been handy in the back line so far. I doubt that he will be able to make the first 18 regularly but he can be a handy back-up for the likes of Drummond and Copeland.

Who's going to forget his 9-pointer against the Cats? It may take a while. "The money's going to Ireland!" :D

[Kochie 16]

He played a tagging role on Chris Judd and kept him to 10 possessions... you call that average?
Spose not. But his kicking was though.

[Grimreepah]

Link (http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=39611)

Begley in line for Lions elevation

By Jennifer Witham, Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network



News

IRISH import Colm Begley has jumped to the top of the queue to replace Michael Voss on the Brisbane Lions senior list should the AFL grant permission for such a move.
The three-time premiership captain will remain on the list this year owing to salary reasons even though he has retired from the game.
The Lions are looking to replace Voss with one of their seven rookie-listed players, with the 20-year-old import leading the charge on the back of some solid pre-season form.
“Colm is capable of becoming a regular senior player,” Lions coach Leigh Matthews told afl.com.au on Thursday.
“We certainly believe that. He’s not just holding his place in the pre-season – we’ve got great faith in him.
“It’s all on form, but the expectation is that he can become a regular senior player.
“We’ve got the ability to elevate a rookie because Michael Voss is on the permanent long-term injury list. So we have to make that decision next week, but I guess right at the moment, Colm is at the head of the queue.”
The Kangaroos were told last month they were unable to elevate a rookie to replace the retired Jonathan Hay, owing to the defender agreeing to sign a release from his two-year contract.
While the Lions are hopeful Voss’s spot can be filled by an emerging rookie, the AFL is yet to grant the club permission to elevate any player.
“The difference between Voss and Hay is that Hay signed a deal to release him from the contract,” AFL spokesman Patrick Keane said.
“Voss has obviously retired as well but he’s been retained on the list for TPP (Total Player Payments) reasons.
“Brisbane has put in a medical consideration to the AFL, stating he is not capable of playing AFL football because of his knee injury.
“That has to be considered by the AFL medical commissioners, which hasn’t been done yet.
“If they agree, then they will be able to upgrade someone as a replacement because he is not fit and able to play. The decision on that hasn’t happened, but the Lions have put in the request for it to be considered.”
Matthews said Begley was the obvious choice based on the form the young Irishman has shown in the club’s three NAB Cup matches, and on how much he has improved since arriving at the club late in 2005.
“He’s got a great competitive character and I was impressed with him straight away. He picked up the ball skills so quickly that we gave him a game in the NAB Cup 12 months ago,” he said.
“His second game of AFL football was a senior game at NAB Cup level. We got him on the field for a couple of senior games last year, as he was learning the game, and we played him this year and I think he’s played really well.”
The Lions coach compared Begley’s game to that of the Swans’ Irish premiership player Tadhg Kennelly but said his own charge was learning the basics of the Australian game much faster.
“Tadgh has the same background but I think Colm has picked up the game a bit quicker than Tadhg did,” he said.
“Tadgh took a few years before he became a really good player. But the running half-back is what Tadhg is, and what Colm is becoming.”
Matthews continues to be “pleasantly surprised” by Begley, after initially expecting him to struggle to adapt to the skills required to play Australian rules.
“I thought to myself, he’s going to struggle to even do normal training with the team in the first 12 months. That was my expectation,” he said.
“But after about a month, he was fine. I was just amazed at how quickly … after about a month, you wouldn’t have known he’d come from Ireland. You would have thought he was just a normal kid who’d played footy all his life.”

[lion_gooner]

i would LOVE to see him get promoted :D i have been to the county he is from its a great area maybe thats why he is so good :D lol

[scott522]

always knew he'd be capable of great things - has the fighting irish spirit...

[danielcanberra]

Go Colm! :thumbsu: :thumbsu: :thumbsu:

I told him I wanted to see him play in more senior games. :)

[crowsarethebest]

He looked very good from what I saw. He is very poised for someone who has only played for a while. He is still very skinny though. Needs to beef up. Lock him in the gym. Good raking left foot kick as well.

[sloth6]

Has he been promoted, his AFL Dreamteam price suggests he is. Too expensive for a rookie listed player?

[TheBrownDog]

Has he been promoted, his AFL Dreamteam price suggests he is. Too expensive for a rookie listed player?

Can we do it yet? I think we have to wait till round 1? Get on him though, will rack plenty of possessions from half-back.

[blynd_freddie]

Can we do it yet? I think we have to wait till round 1? Get on him though, will rack plenty of possessions from half-back.

I think promotion/s to be announced next week.

[The Flying Belgian]

Has he been promoted, his AFL Dreamteam price suggests he is. Too expensive for a rookie listed player?

His price would be up because he's actually player some senior footy last year when he was temporarily promoted.

[Grimreepah]

Link (http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/footy/common/story_page/0,8033,21459087%255E19746,00.html)

Lions' Irish rookie may not have long wait
28 March 2007 Herald-Sun
Andrew Hamilton
IRISHMAN Colm Begley could be a Round 1 starter after Brisbane last night elevated him off the rookie list.

The Lions have paperwork from the AFL that lets Begley take retired skipper Michael Voss's place on the list. It means the 20-year-old is eligible for selection for Saturday night's match against Hawthorn at the Gabba.
Voss, who remains on the Lions list, will be placed on the long-term injury list.
Begley arrived in Australia at the start of last season and was a late rookie elevation to cover for the injured Justin Leppitsch, playing two games.
He is expected to slot into the Lions' defence, paving the way for co-captain Chris Johnson to be used in the midfield.
"I have a lot of time for Colm, I was amazed at what he did this time last year when he first arrived," Lions coach Leigh Matthews said.
"He's had a year to learn to play and he's one of those people the way he goes about things, his personality, his character, he's a competitor and it makes you want to persevere with him."
Begley astonished Lions staff last year with his endurance and how quickly he acquired kicking and handball skills.
Matthews hopes he can eclipse the feats of Irish Sydney Swans premiership star Tadhg Kennelly.
"When Tadhg Kennelly arrived he looked like he'd never been on a footy field for the first couple of years then all of a sudden he's a star," Matthews said. "Colm has picked things up a bit quicker."

[danielcanberra]

Good onya Colm!

I think he could very well end up being a key defender.

I agree with Leigh - I have a lot of time for Colm. One of the nicest blokes around.

[scott522]

yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

[Ceebee]

I get the feeling you are pretty happy Scott522.:)
He looks a beauty I reckon, in ability and personality ,will bring a lot of positives to the Club.
Well done everyone involved and GO Colm!!!!:thumbsu:

[danielcanberra]

Oh, I've also got to comment about Begley... his foot skills are just phenomenal. His skills and athleticism are gelling into quite a package. As he gathers some more game experience, he is going to be a STAR.

Thanks BrownDog (from the training thread)

Go Colm!! :thumbsu:

[TheBrownDog]

He does tricky little moves too.

No bending over to pick up the ball for our boy Colm.

Its easier for him to flick it up in the air with one foot, then tap it with the base of his other foot so it loops up behind him and over his shoulder into his hands.

Its freakish. A pure GAA skill. He'll do it as part of a goal one day and will win goal of the century.

[lion_gooner]

good to see the guy get promoted :D

still has a players ahead of him but hopefully he will still play most of the games :D

[TheBrownDog]

good to see the guy get promoted :D

still has a players ahead of him but hopefully he will still play most of the games :D

Reckon he is a chance for round 1 myself.

At the very least, the elevation guarantees him a payrise.

Lets hope he doesn't blow it on Guinness and potatoes and gain 20 kilos from all the carbs.

[Quigley]

I expect him in the team for round 1. He is still a fair way away from being a "star" but I am on him to improve a lot over the course of the year and be an important player for us by the end of the year. A bit like Stiller last year although he is probably like to get more time earlier in the season.

I paid above his worth at the moment for him to sit on the bench of my dreamteam but hopefully by the end of the year he will be a bargain.

[scott522]

gee can i pick em, rischi now colm...teehee

[TheBrownDog]

gee can i pick em, rischi now colm...teehee

Must have a few spare tickets for the sponsor's dinner now Lese! ;)

[Warwick]

Glad I picked him first up in the "drunken night out" draft.

[danielcanberra]

I remember Colm's first game last year at the Gabba and thought, wow, that was an amazing first game from Colm (you should all know by know that I focus on the positive).

And he was the 100th player to don a Lions guernsey.

He will be very special to us.

[Warwick]

I'll keep this handy.

1. Michael Voss
2. Nigel Lappin
3. Justin Leppitsch
4. Alastair Lynch
5. Simon Black
6. Jason Akermanis
7. Shaun Hart
8. Mal Michael
9. Chris Johnson
10. Luke Power
11. Jonathan Brown
12. Marcus Ashcroft
13. Clark Keating
14. Craig McRae
15. Martin Pike

16. Chris Scott
17. Darryl White
18. Richard Champion
19. Brad Scott
20. Des Headland
21. Craig Lambert
22. Matthew Kennedy
23. Daniel Bradshaw
24. Tim Notting
25. Robert Copeland
26. Beau McDonald
27. Blake Caracella
28. Jamie Charman
29. Jarrod Molloy
30. Ashley McGrath

31. Richard Hadley
32. Jed Adcock
33. Justin Sherman
34. Matthew Clark
35. Aaron Shattock
36. Steven Lawrence
37. Brad Boyd
38. Jared Brennan
39. Adam Heuskes
40. Adrian Fletcher
41. Brett Voss
42. Michael Rischitelli
43. Scott McIvor
44. Andrew Bews
45. Josh Drummond
46. Jason Roe
47. Craig Bolton
48. Troy Selwood
49. Joel MacDonald
50. Shane O’Bree

51. Anthony Corrie
52. Matthew Moody
53. Tristen Lynch
54. Danny Dickfos
55. Ben Robbins
56. Nathan Chapman
57. Damien Cupido
58. Cheynee Stiller
59. Ben Fixter
60. Rhan Hooper
61. Mitch Clark
62. Joel Patfull
63. Dylan McLaren
64. Dion Scott
65. Daniel Merrett
66. Cameron Wood
67. Wayde Mills
68. Marcus Picken
69. Trent Bartlett
70. Scott Bamford
71. Andrew Gowers
72. Martin Pask
73. Shane Clayton
74. John Barker
75. Martin McKinnon
76. Scott Harding
77. Shane Morrison
78. Rory Hilton
79. Trent Knobel
80. Jayden Attard
81. Nick Trask
82. Mick Martin
83. Nathan Clarke
84. Jason Gram
85. Marcus Allen
86. Daniel Pratt
87. David Calthorpe
88. Shannon Rusca
89. Luke Weller
90. Llane Spaanderman
91. Tom Logan
92. Nick Carter
93. Brent Green
94. Derek Wirth
95. Colm Begley
96. Stefan Carey
97. Darren Bradshaw
98. Travis Baird
99. Leigh Ryswyk
100. Michael McLean

[irel]

http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=40129

Begley's meteoric rise continues
0 hours, 42 minutes ago | Back

By Catherine Murphy, Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network

News
IRISH recruit Colm Begley is delighted to have made the senior list at the Brisbane Lions little more than 12 months after he first played Aussie Rules.

The promotion comes on the back of an impressive NAB Cup campaign during which he even managed to kick a supergoal.

“It’s great news for me and very exciting coming up to the weekend,” said Begley. “I wanted to ring home straight away when I found out but unfortunately my family would have been in bed at that stage because of the time difference.

“I rang home as soon as I could though and told my dad and brothers. They were pretty excited when they heard.”

Begley comes on to the list in place of retired captain Michael Voss and says it’s a dream come true to be named in place of a legend of the game.

“It’s a massive honour going on the list to replace Michael. He’s one of the best players Brisbane has ever had.”

The 20-year-old, who hails from Stradbally in County Laois in Ireland, capped a meteoric rise when he made his senior debut in round 20 last year against the West Coast Eagles, taking even less time than compatriot Tadhg Kennelly to notch his first game. It’s something the good-humoured Irishman plans not to let his friend forget.

“He’s so jealous; it’s something that’s really going to haunt him for the rest of his life. He knows I made a better debut and a faster debut than him, and overall, I’m just a better looking player than him,” chuckled Begley.

“I try not to rub it in too much because he takes it pretty hard. I should probably ring him now and make sure he’s heard my good news.”

Begley says he is now looking forward to the season more than ever.

“I’m a bit nervous but in a good way. I’m really excited about the season. It’s already been a great year. The atmosphere at the club is great. The team is very close.

“Because people see us as rebuilding and a young team, they don’t really expect much of us so it’s kind of like we’ve got nothing to lose. Hopefully it all goes well and we get a good start this weekend.”

[danielcanberra]

I saw him FIRST!!

Judy can vouch that I made a comment to her at half time during Colm's first game.

In fact, I am going to start a Colm for captain campaign for the post-fab five period (sorry Browny).

[TheBrownDog]

I saw him FIRST!!

Judy can vouch that I made a comment to her at half time during Colm's first game.

In fact, I am going to start a Colm for captain campaign for the post-fab five period (sorry Browny).

I was on the Colm bandwagon back when he was called Sean Cavanagh! If Lionised still existed, I could prove it!

[TheBrownDog]

The 20-year-old, who hails from Stradbally in County Laois in Ireland, capped a meteoric rise when he made his senior debut in round 20 last year against the West Coast Eagles, taking even less time than compatriot Tadhg Kennelly to notch his first game. It’s something the good-humoured Irishman plans not to let his friend forget.

“He’s so jealous; it’s something that’s really going to haunt him for the rest of his life. He knows I made a better debut and a faster debut than him, and overall, I’m just a better looking player than him,” chuckled Begley.

“I try not to rub it in too much because he takes it pretty hard. I should probably ring him now and make sure he’s heard my good news.”

The kid has a sense of humour! :D

[Grimreepah]

“He’s so jealous; it’s something that’s really going to haunt him for the rest of his life. He knows I made a better debut and a faster debut than him, and overall, I’m just a better looking player than him,” chuckled Begley.

“I try not to rub it in too much because he takes it pretty hard. I should probably ring him now and make sure he’s heard my good news.”

:D ROFL

I like his style. He would be a crack up in supercoach.

[xplo]

He's a funny bugger.

http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=40129

<sarcasm>Gee, that website is a great leap forward. Don't you love the way that instead of just having a boring ol' useful, relevant pic of Colm, thanks to the wonders of technology, it now shuffles automagically to the AFL logo.

The march of progress!

"Ok, team, let's see if we can make this thing both more complex, AND less useful!"

</sarcasm>

Sigh.

[danielcanberra]

A welcome to all Colm Begley supporters, particularly his friends, family and countryfolk from Ireland (lend us your ears).

You may be interested in some of the other discussion threads about Colm.

- Colm Begley (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=207055) (early thread 2005)
- ANOTHER DEBUTANT.colm begley (round 20 teams) (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=262663)
- Colm Begley to be interviewed on White Line Fever tonight... (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=265778)
- Colm Begley (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=276952) (a thread Warwick boycotted)
- Begley will play (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=227195)
- Begley (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=238917)
- Begley promoted (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=252579) (2006)
- Begley for Ireland (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=279892)
- Hows Begley getting on?
(http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=294212)- Begley To Be Elevated? (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=305819)
- Snakes and Ladders - Begley style! (http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/showthread.php?t=262856)

[scott522]

I saw him FIRST!!
Judy can vouch that I made a comment to her at half time during Colm's first game.
In fact, I am going to start a Colm for captain campaign for the post-fab five period (sorry Browny).

I beg to differ DC -
we went up to Colm at training with Pasky after Brendan went back to Ireland and said "We'll be following you once you start playing" and have done so from when he started with the Suncoast Lions :p
and to back A up...
TBD did also say he was "on the wagon" when he started at the Sunnies; back in the Lionised day, so you might have to be happy with being the 1st non BrisVegan to be onboard :p

I also put my money where my mouth was by sponsoring - nana nanana -
Tag - You're it !!!

[danielcanberra]

I'm too poor at the moment. Have utility bills and flights (to attend Lions games) to pay. And two not cheap guernseys...

I'm backed into a corner now and am going to have to put money on him too. :eek:

I expect a huge dividend on this investment!

[danielcanberra]

I am pleased to announce that I am also a proud sponsor of Colm Begley (undergoing the process)! :)

I am happy to be the first non-BrisVegan on board and concede that Scotty522 saw him first! :( ;)

It may be cheaper for me to be tithed by the club from now on!

[okarm26]

Fair play to yah Colm.
Good to see a fellow Laois man making a go of it .
Hopefully he'll get a decent run with the seniors this year. :thumbsu:

[xplo]

Fair play to yah Colm.
Good to see a fellow Laois man making a go of it .
Hopefully he'll get a decent run with the seniors this year. :thumbsu:

He's a very popular lad and seems to have the full confidence of the coach, so he's doing everything right.

[TheBrownDog]

He's just going to keep improving as time goes on too, so much potential!

http://www.epica-awards.org/assets/epica/2005/winners/films/screenshots/images/05512_guinness12.jpg

[Kochie 16]

What's his main role anyway? Is he like Selwood, a up and coming tagger, or a utility player?

[TheBrownDog]

What's his main role anyway? Is he like Selwood, a up and coming tagger, or a utility player?

Running defender.

Shown signs he could play midfield in a year or two though.

[Kochie 16]

Ah, like Stiller. Good.

[TheBrownDog]

I see so much of a young Nigel Lappin in Begley, its amazing.

[Kochie 16]

I haven't seen much of a young Lappin, Except the 1995 Final Bears vs Carlton, oh what a game that was.

[TheBrownDog]

I haven't seen much of a young Lappin, Except the 1995 Final Bears vs Carlton, oh what a game that was.

I've mantally blocked out much of that game.

I do remember Craig Lambert being best on ground though. He was freakish that day.

[Kochie 16]

And a red head Aker, Now THAT was funny.

[danielcanberra]

Irish youngster keeps Lions smiling
Brought to you by Laine Clark, AAP

News

There was a good reason why Brisbane Lions' Irish recruit Colm Begley was not overwhelmed when asked to mark St Kilda legend Robert Harvey in their top-of-the-table AFL clash.

"The fact he's from Ireland, he's probably not in awe of Robert Harvey because he doesn't know who he is," Lions coach Leigh Matthews laughed.

"But even if he knew about Harvs, he's got confidence in himself."

That confidence would have been sky-high after the Irish youngster kept the two-time Brownlow medallist under wraps at the Gabba on Thursday night.

Brisbane used to be known for their ‘fab five’ midfield, but it has been their ‘super six’ featuring Begley that Matthews has been raving about this season.

Matthews believes Brisbane's back six of 20-year-old Begley, Daniel Merrett, Jed Adcock, Jared Brennan, Robert Copeland and Wayde Mills were the key for the upset victory that kept the unbeaten Lions on top of the ladder.

Mills was thrown into the game as a last-minute replacement for Jason Roe (hamstring).

"I just think we've got a really good defensive group together," Matthews said.

"We are all pretty thrilled that rather than just talking about potential we are seeing it."
...
Begley's meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed in his homeland.

An Irish journalist attended the post-match press conference and wanted to know if Matthews planned to unearth another Begley.

"Absolutely. We are still putting the toe in the water in Ireland," he said.

"If you can get a Colm Begley every year you'd want to get one or two every year.

"I suspect there are a lot of Irish boys over there that are very capable of being very good AFL footballers."
http://www.afl.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/208/Default.aspx?newsId=40759

[Horsebox]

There's actually talk here in Ireland that a couple of AFL teams are sniffing around Brendan Quigley at the moment. Dunno if he would go back to Oz but he's played really well for Laois since he came back. Fantastic athlete.

[danielcanberra]

Colm is the Energizer bunny. Funny, I thought it was Duracell. :D
http://www.duracell.com.au/images/funstuff/wallpaper_03.jpg
(I can see it now... he's going to wind up being called the "rabbit".)

See
Selection headache for Lethal (http://www.news.com.au/sundaymail/story/0,23739,21519247-5003410,00.html) By Damien Stannard (http://www.news.com.au/sundaymail/author/0,23829,5001322-5003410,00.html)
April 08, 2007 12:00am
Article from: http://www.news.com.au/images/sources/sm_sundaymail.gif
WHAT was last year a source of frustration for the Brisbane Lions is now a cause for celebration.

but one of the pleasant surprises has been Matthews's "Energiser bunny", Begley.

Begley had never played Australian rules before his rookie season last year but impressed enough to be given the job of containing St Kilda's dual Brownlow Medallist Robert Harvey.

"He has an enormous spunk and character," Matthews said of the Irishman.

"He probably isn't in awe of Robert Harvey because he doesn't know who he is.

"Even if he knew what Harvs has been over his life he's got confidence in himself.

"Colm is like a battery bunny, he never stops running. He has a great aerobic ability to keep going."

[Quigley]

Leigh seems to be using Colm in a defensive or run with role this year and giving him a specific job whilst he learns the ins and outs of the game. He was solid round 1 picking up a handful of possessions and improved on that in round 2.

I would expect Colm to have gotten serious Rising Star consideration for his round 2 performance where he effectively shut down Harvey limiting him to 14 possessions whilst picking up a very handy 16 possessions himself. He is developing very nicely and from week to week you can see the improvement. He is a very exciting prospect who I am expecting to be picking up 20+ possessions per game running off players by the end of the year.

Colm has great running ability and a raking left foot. At the moment he still seems to rush things a little bit when deep in defence and often will just clear the ball long without looking for a target. When he is further forward or has more time at the back he has a great flat kick which you can see is going to be a weapon for him in the years to come.

A good start for Colm and great signs for things to come.

[xplo]

There's actually talk here in Ireland that a couple of AFL teams are sniffing around Brendan Quigley at the moment. Dunno if he would go back to Oz but he's played really well for Laois since he came back. Fantastic athlete.

I tend to doubt it. No doubt he's a great athlete, but he didn't cope well the first time. From memory it was a month of preseason training he did.

[Snuka]

Saw nobody posted it yet and the premise of the article is a little silly but...

No Stopping AFL's Irish Invasion. (http://www.theage.com.au/news/Sport/No-stopping-AFLs-Irish-invasion-Begley/2007/05/02/1177788220060.html)

[danielcanberra]

Saw nobody posted it yet and the premise of the article is a little silly but...

No Stopping AFL's Irish Invasion. (http://www.theage.com.au/news/Sport/No-stopping-AFLs-Irish-invasion-Begley/2007/05/02/1177788220060.html)

Let's have the full text, in case some of Colm's mates from Ireland don't check up BF until later (when the link disappears)

No stopping AFL's Irish invasion: Begley
May 2, 2007 - 7:19PM

Bad publicity caused by the West Coast Eagles won't scare off Irish AFL hopefuls, Brisbane Lions import Colm Begley says.

The West Coast hierarchy were last weekend hauled before the AFL Commission to explain their handling of several controversies including the fall from grace of former skipper Ben Cousins.

Cousins flew back into the country this week after receiving treatment for substance abuse in the US.

Begley is the latest AFL success story from Ireland after a stunning rise at Brisbane.

The 20-year-old was recruited late in 2005 and elevated from the Lions rookie list barely a year later.

Lions coach Leigh Matthews had made no secret he will again head back to Ireland for recruitment after being blown away by the progress of his "battery bunny" Begley.

And plenty of AFL clubs are expected to follow.

But Begley believes the good publicity created by the likes of himself and Sydney's Tadhg Kennelly in Ireland would far outweigh the bad press created by the Eagles.

"It's unfortunate the drugs issue came into the AFL," said Begley who hails from the Gaelic football club of Stradbally.

"But there is only one team where we are really seeing it.

"And when I was back home I didn't hear the bad things over there, only the good things and the good opportunities.

"And the club I've come to is a great one that has looked after me.

"It's bad for sport when drugs come into it but you (an Irish prospect) have to look past that towards the opportunity you have over here and say `which is better?"

"If you can say no to drugs it's no problem."

Begley could see no end to the Irish invasion of the AFL.

"I would say a few more would come out, from what I hear there is a lot of clubs interested in doing it," he said.

"It has paid off with Tadhg and Setanta (O'hAilpin of Carlton) so far.

"I don't see why not other players can come out and give it a go.

"Tadhg has the mantle (as best current Irish AFL footballer) at this stage but I will try and catch up with him soon."

Begley has made himself at home in Brisbane's back six and will again be a key when the Lions host Fremantle at the Gabba on Sunday.

He was given a chance last season thanks to the retirement of Justin Leppitsch and a spate of injuries.

But he has maintained his spot in 2007, ensuring proven top graders are coming off the injury list and being relegated to the reserves.

"You definitely feel pressure (from reserves players), but that's a good thing - competition helps," he said.

The Irishman hopes to be joined on the field by veteran midfielder Nigel Lappin (thigh) on Sunday.

Lappin has been sidelined since suffering a corked thigh in round one following an attempted trip by Hawthorn's Luke Hodge.

"It was an unfortunate incident," Begley said.

"It's been a few weeks now but he is a true professional and a great player so I'm sure he will be back soon enough."

Co-captain Luke Power brandished a bandaged knee at training but is not expected to miss the Fremantle clash.

[TheBrownDog]

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,5469477,00.jpg

[danielcanberra]

If you are going to start including mug shots...

http://i16.tinypic.com/5ys6efk.jpg

[TheBrownDog]

If you are going to start including mug shots...

http://i16.tinypic.com/5ys6efk.jpg

Love that picture. Only thing that would make it better would be if it was a large, raw, unpeeled potato instead of a banana.

[LuckyLuke]

Love that picture. Only thing that would make it better would be if it was a large, raw, unpeeled potato instead of a banana.

Or a pint of Guinness! :p

http://www.itdeluxe.com.au/pic/colmbanana.jpg

[Grimreepah]

Link (http://news.brisbanetimes.com.au/matthews-rules-out-picking-rhan-hooper/20073428-fab.html)

Young Irishman Colm Begley appears set to return against Richmond at Telstra Dome on Saturday night after impressing in the reserves.
"He went back to the reserves, didn't sulk, went back with a fantastic determined attitude," Matthews said.
"That's why we have a lot of faith in that kid.
"He was left out, knew what he had to do and most probably will come back in."

[TheBrownDog]

Kicked a great goal against Carlton in round 5.

4iiA0PPK2vA

Great commentary by Clinton Grybas too, even though he completely mispronounces Colm's home county of Laois. (It's pronounced Leesh).

[danielcanberra]

Great work Browndog.

Thankfully Grybas didn't try to pronounce 'Colm'.

[xplo]

One of our best goals for the season. Nice to see big Sentanta chasing him too.

[danielcanberra]

Cold? Wet? Just like home…

5:49 PM Sun 17 June, 2007

By Catherine Murphy
for lions.com.au

News

WHEN the skies darkened and the wind whipped in ahead of Sunday’s clash against Geelong at Skilled Stadium, there was one Brisbane Lions player who felt right at home.

“I looked out the window and all I could see was dark clouds, trees and green fields and I’m thinking, ‘Am I in Ireland or what?’,” Colm Begley told lions.com.au after the game.

“And then to top it all I saw a big field of sheep, well I couldn’t believe it. Even the ground felt like home. I haven’t felt that type of soft ground in ages.

“Anything that reminds you of home is a good thing, but I don’t really miss that rain, I have to say.”

The conditions may have suited Begley, but they made for a dour first half which yielded only four goals, all of them Geelong’s. The loss was the Lions’ sixth in a row, and Begley said the side was looking forward to next weekend’s mid-season break.

“It is frustrating. We started the season really well and then things went down a bit. Games haven’t been going as we’d want them to. After a long pre-season I think everyone’s tired. We’ll have a break and look at what we can do going into the second half of the season and we’ll look forward to the future.”

Geelong was able to respond every time the Lions tried to get back into the game, and Begley said the Cats “exposed some of our vulnerabilities”.

“It’s a young squad. We tried hard but we did make mistakes. They probably have a lot more experience than us and have worked together for a long time and are used to playing with each other.

“We’re still happy enough. There’s a really good unity on our team at the moment.

Our forwards were working really hard to get the scores but the ball just wasn’t going in the right way.

“My disposals could have been better but it’s something I will really work to improve on. If we keep having that attitude of competing and competing, things will start to go our way.”

Jonathan Brown was tireless in defeat despite being double- and sometimes triple-teamed most of the day, and Begley said the Lions were keen to improve their delivery to the “amazing” big forward.

“If you get the right ball into him he can do serious damage. I’d back him, even against two players, any time. I think in the second half of the season you’ll see Jonathan Brown really getting the ball he deserves. We’re working on that in training.”

http://lions.com.au/Season2007/News/NewsArticle/tabid/5085/Default.aspx?newsId=45143

[TheBrownDog]

There is a full page interview with Begley on the last page of this weeks Footy Record.

[danielcanberra]

There is a full page interview with Begley on the last page of this weeks Footy Record.

Can you ask Buttkuss to type it out here?

[TheBrownDog]

Can you ask Buttkuss to type it out here?

Funny you should say that, because I am in bed on my laptop and Butkuss is peeping over my shoulder.

[LuckyLuke]

:eek: How the hell did you take that pic?!?!?! :eek:

[TheBrownDog]

The gf did.

[MacMum]

I've mantally blocked out much of that game.

I do remember Craig Lambert being best on ground though. He was freakish that day.
..and I cried!! I was so proud of my beloved Bears, just for being there!!

[Grimreepah]

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/2748/begleysf8.jpg

Begley's transition to AFL has been impressive, but it would seem Martin Clarke's has been a lot better. I think there is a bit of Irish rivalry, and that will inspire Begley to take his game to another level.

[danielcanberra]

Begley's transition to AFL has been impressive, but it would seem Martin Clarke's has been a lot better. I think there is a bit of Irish rivalry, and that will inspire Begley to take his game to another level.

Tadhg mentioned a few weeks ago in an interview with Channel TEN that he will be heading home soon (back to Ireland).

Hopefully Colm can take over the spotlight from the folks back home when this happens.

[TheBrownDog]

Hopefully Colm can take over the spotlight from the folks back home when this happens.

Will be hard with all the Martin Clarke hysteria at the moment.

[Grimreepah]

Tadhg mentioned a few weeks ago in an interview with Channel TEN that he will be heading home soon (back to Ireland).

I believe 'soon' means at the end of his 3 year contract.

[Toshowyouwhy]

He gave my sister a ball at the end of the dockers game. HER NEW FAVOURITE PLAYER!!

[danielcanberra]

He gave my sister a ball at the end of the dockers game. HER NEW FAVOURITE PLAYER!!

:) - I hope she is a Brisbane Lions supporter!

[Toshowyouwhy]

I go for the Lions in every game they play EXCEPT when they play the eagles.

Went to the dockers game to heap s*** on Des.

He heard us.

[TheBrownDog]

I go for the Lions in every game they play EXCEPT when they play the eagles.

Went to the dockers game to heap s*** on Des.

He heard us.

Poor Des. I've got nothing against him.

[Toshowyouwhy]

As an eagles supporter I feel it's my duty.

Picture this...

Boundry throw in outside Lions 50. Headland picks it up. Immediately tackled by Black. Power picks it up and delivers it straight to the chest of Brown.

We scream every name under the sun at Des who immediately turns around to see who it was. Sister s**** herself because Des can smell blood.
Des then gets distracted by Browns bare arse in the goal square.

[danielcanberra]

Happy 21st Birthday Colm. Have a great one.

[blackclaw]

I never realised Colm and I shared the same birthday!

Happy Birthday Colm, hopefully we can both celebrate with a win tomorrow night!

[CoZi36]

Happy Birthday Colm and blackclaw.

[Grimreepah]

Probably a little unlucky not to get a rising star nomination after two 20+ disposal games to finish the year.

As you would expect he was just finding his feet throughout the year, but it's a good sign for next year that he seems to have taken that next step.

[Cousin Jed]

Probably a little unlucky not to get a rising star nomination after two 20+ disposal games to finish the year.


Well Thursfield did get 5 goals kicked on him by Gehrig, so he was obviously superior. :rolleyes:

Very unlucky I say

[Grimreepah]

Well done to Begley on receiving the rookie of the year award for 2007.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/8123/begleyhu1.jpg

[notting18]

Begs has set a high standard for Hanley:p

[TheBrownDog]

Colm is tearing it up for his old team while on holiday . He is helping Stradbally launch an unexpected assault on the Laois County title.

GAA: Stradbally hang for The Rock collapse
By: Tomás Moore
Original article (http://www.laois-nationalist.ie/news/story.asp?j=26703&cat=sport)

SFC
Stradbally 1-6 The Rock 1-6

COLM Begley’s return to Laois GAA circles was a welcome boost for Stradbally as they qualified for the quarter-finals of the competition. The Brisbane Lions player was only introduced as a substitute at half time but he carried the ball and gained a huge amount of possession in the second half of the game.

The win guaranteed Stradbally top spot in the group but it did take a late score from substitute Michael Kelly to rescue a point against The Rock. The point ensured Stradbally could not be caught in the group as it backed up wins against Mountmellick and Ballyroan Abbey earlier in the championship.

When The Rock looks back at this game they will find it hard to see how they were unable to come away with a win from the encounter. They hit the post five times and even though the game was tight, they were ahead by four points minutes before half time.

However, Stradbally found a battling resolve to claw themselves back into the game and can thank Conor Delaney for his fortunate goal in the opening half. Delaney, who was a member of the Laois minor panel, found himself in space and he somehow shot the ball past Brendan Dalton and into the goals.

This was all after The Rock had started the game at a lightening pace with Paul Dunne on form as he opened the scoring with a goal after a great run which left Stradbally stranded in defence.

The score from the lively Dunne was added by Stephen McDonald who sent over a point and it seemed Stradbally were in serious trouble early in the game. The energetic runs of Paul Dunne were causing endless problems and he was on target again as he sent over a fine point with 12 minutes of the game elapsed. Stradbally did finally get on to the target when Conor Delaney sent the ball to the back of the net. The Rock had a goal chance but Robert Kelly pulled off a save from Shane O’Connell.

The Rock regained composure when Mark Dunne sent over a point after he was released by Paul Dunne and the lead was extended even further with a score from Stephen McDonald.

Stradbally did have a goal chance through Cormac Delaney but he was unable to find the target and Greg Ramsbottom did send over a point as Stradbally were behind 1-4 to 1-1 at the interval.

Many of the Stradbally followers were hoping for a vast improvement in the second half as Colm Begley was introduced for the Little Town. Colm Kelly sent over a free and the same player then scored a long-range point to leave only a score between the sides.

Junior Harding extended the lead but Gary Kavanagh sent over another point. Cormac Delaney was again off target with two goal chances but Mark Dunne had no problems in extending the lead for his side with ten minutes of the game remaining.

However it was the turn of Stradbally through Colm and Michael Kelly to snatch an unlikely draw and book their place as table toppers in the group.

SCORERS Stradbally: Colm Kelly 0-3 (1f), Conor Delaney 1-0, Greg Ramsbottom, Gary Kavanagh, Michael Kelly 0-1 each.

The Rock: Paul Dunne 1-1, Mark Dunne, Stephen McDonald 0-2 each, Junior Harding 0-1.

STRADBALLY: Robert Kelly; Dan Dunne, Paul Begley, Colin Beale; Jeremy Kavanagh, Eamon Delaney, Billy Murphy; Daragh McEvoy, Stephen Lalor; Damien Murphy, Gary Kavanagh, Conor Delaney; Jamie Kavanagh, Colm Kelly, Greg Ramsbottom. Subs: Cormac Delaney for B Murphy (28mins), Colm Begley for Lalor (HT), Michael Kelly for Jamie Cavanaugh (41mins), Larry Keenan for Dunne (54mins).

THE ROCK: Brendan Dalton; Brian Conlon, Thomas McDonald, Paddy Dunne; Pat Delaney, Derek Conroy, Ivan Lawlor; Mark Dunne, Philip Peake; Shane O’Connell, Michael Buggy, Stephen McDonald; Paul Dunne, Johnny McDonald, Junior Harding. Subs: Terence Conlon for Delaney (23mins), Danny McRedmond for S McDonald (57mins).

REF: Eddie Kinchella (Courtwood)

Begley returns to inspire Stradbally
by Ciarán FITZPATRICK
Stradbally 0-14 Crettyard 1-6
Original Article (http://www.laois-nationalist.ie/news/story.asp?j=26761&cat=sport)

A DOMINANT second half performance from Stradbally saw them through to the semi-final as they swept aside the challenge of Crettyard.

It wasn’t all one-way traffic though with Crettyard making use of their wind advantage to take the game to their more illustrious opponents.

In fact they led by two points at half time on a score line of 0-6 to 0-4 with Keith Nolan and Cristeoir Maher leading the charge. Stradbally were slow to settle and just kept in touch in the first half but once the second half got underway they were in a class of their own.

They shot eight points in the opening 15 minutes of the half to put them six in front as Crettyard could barely manage an attack never mind a score.

Crettyard managed just one score in the final 30 minutes, that a goal from Liam Kelly after a short free from Pa Brennan had caught the Stradbally defence napping. This did lift the Crettyard crowd somewhat but it little effect on the pitch where it mattered and Stradbally tagged on two more points to run out eight point winners.

Colm Begley was a huge addition to the Stradbally line-up and he had a fine game at midfield, contributing two fine points as well as covering an enormous amount of ground. Up front Gary Kavanagh also did a lot of work while Colm Kelly was a big threat. Greg Ramsbottom came into the game more as it wore on and he finished up with two points to his name.

The game lost its competitiveness after Stradbally’s ruthless display at the start of the second half but up until then it was a very evenly matched affair. Darragh McEvoy had opened the scoring for Stradbally after three minutes with another six passing before Cristeoir Maher opened Crettyard’s account. Keith Nolan pushed the underdogs in front but a lovely point from Colm Kelly levelled things once more.

A pointed free from Maher and a nice effort from John Graham showed that Crettyard weren’t ready to lie down just yet while Kelly pulled back a point with a free from 40 metres out.

Maher sent over another free after Paul Begley had handled the ball on the ground. Gary Kavanagh made it a onpoint game once more when he hand-passed a point but Keith Nolan chipped in with his second point to leave Crettyard two in front at the break.

That was as good as it got for Crettyard, however, as Stradbally took off in the second half. Kelly had a free put over on 40 seconds while Paul Begley stormed out of defence to set up his brother Colm in the fifth minute. Kelly put over another free to regain the lead for Stradbally, the first time they led since McEvoy’s opening point.

Greg Ramsbottom put over his first point after Ken Dunne had saved well from Damien Murphy. Stephen Lawlor, Gary Kavanagh and Colm Begley tagged on points to put Stradbally five in front while another Ramsbottom point made it 0-12 to 0-6 with fifteen minutes remaining.

Stradbally’s scoring spree eased off as Crettyard upped their game slightly. They were unable to make anything of their attacks until the 53rd minute however when Pa Brennan took a quick free to pick out Liam Kelly.

Kelly made no mistake from just inside the square to shoot home the game’s only goal. It was one blip in an otherwise very impressive second half performance from Stradbally which was due to a lapse in concentration more so than being outplayed and they responded to shoot over two more points before the game was out with Colm Kelly and Darragh Mulhall finding the target.

This was a quality display from Stradbally who will have to be confident about their chances after such a convincing win. They will face tougher opposition no doubt but they showed on Sunday that they are definitely title contenders and it will take a very strong side to end their ambitions.

GAA: Stradbally pounce from long grass
By: Tomas Moore
Original article (http://www.laois-nationalist.ie/news/story.asp?j=26804&cat=sport)

SFC semi-final
Stradbally 0-10 Arles-Killeen 1-5

DREAMS of reaching their second county final in succession went up in smoke for Arles-Killeen as they failed to match Stradbally for long periods of this semi-final clash.

It was widely expected that Donie Brennan and Co would be favourites to book their place in the final but Stradbally were waiting in the long grass for their opponents with a serious game plan.

Arles-Killeen were the tip of the championship especially with the manner in which they dispatched Ballylinan in the quarter-final.

However Beano McDonald, Donie Brennan and Jason Enright, who are three of the best attacking forwards in the county, were given no space by the Stradbally defenders and it was clear from early in the game that the Little Town were in control of the game especially when Damien Murphy and Eamon Delaney picked up Beano McDonald and managed to keep him scoreless.

More importantly they managed to cut off the supply of ball into Donie and Enright and it was starting to show on the scoreboard. This was done to the Stradbally management having their homework complete in their assessment of Arles-Killeen with Stephen Lalor limiting Enright to no scores from play while Paul Begley began the game on Donie Brennan.

Donie was eventually picked up by Damien Murphy but the introduction of Larry Keenan seemed to be the best move of the game. Keenan, who replaced Darragh Mulhall early in the game after he picked up a serious knee injury, was a thorn in midfield and he was in possession of the ball enough times to keep Arles-Killeen guessing for long periods of the game. At one stage he even went unchallenged for a throw ball and easily claimed the ball with one hand.

In fairness to Arles-Killeen they never once gave up and only a point separated the sides in the last minute of the game when Shane Julian blasted the ball to the net to give his side much needed hope. It was too late and Stradbally advanced to place in the final and a possible derby date with Portlaoise if they over-come Mountmellick at the weekend.

The opening stages of the game were dour and both sides were struggling to play proper football with some heavy challenges going in from both teams. Arles-Killeen did take the lead through a Jason Enright free but five minutes later Darragh McEvoy was on target with a super point. Enright sent over another free but this was to be the last score of the half for the Hugh Kenny trained side.

The introduction of Larry Keenan added power and steel to the Stradbally team as they pushed further ahead with two more scores from the boot of Colm Kelly. Arles-Killeen now moved Shane Julian on to Greg Ramsbottom but Colm Kelly was again calling problems as he released Conor Delaney in free space.

Delaney, who can count himself unlucky not to have grabbed a place on the Laois minor team this year, sent over a superb long range point to send the crowd into raptures.

The score from Delaney had Stradbally ahead 0-4 to 0-2 at the interval and it seemed Arles-Killeen were in severe trouble.

But Donie and Co had other things on their mind as Brennan sent over a point after the interval and this was followed by a score from Jason Enright. The latter missed two important frees in the second half which were to prove costly in the end of the game. Stradbally moved back into the lead when Colm Begley sent over a point from the sideline which was followed by another score from Colm Kelly.

The lead was extended by Gary Kavanagh and Darragh McEvoy as Stradbally were ahead by four points with 13 minutes of the game remaining. Enright and McEvoy traded scores with the game getting closer to the finishing line.

However, Arles-Killeen threw themselves a life-line when Shane Julian raced up field with the ball to blast the ball past Robert Kelly in the goals. Last year’s finalists had a chance to level the game through Paul Garrigan but a late score from Damien Murphy put Stradbally on course to win their second title in three years.

SCORERS Stradbally: Darragh McEvoy 0-3, Colm Kelly 0-3 (3f) Colm Begley, Damien Murphy, Conor Delaney, Gary Kavanagh 0-1 each.

Arles-Killeen: Jason Enright 0-4 (4f), Shane Julian 1-0, Donie Brennan 0-1.

STRADBALLY: Robert Kelly; Kevin Molloy, Paul Begley, Colin Beale; Jeremy Kavanagh, Eamon Delaney, Stephen Lalor; Colm Begley, Darragh Mulhall; Gary Kavanagh, Darragh McEvoy, Damien Murphy; Conor Delaney, Greg Ramsbottom, Colm Kelly. Subs: Larry Keenan for Mulhall (16mins, inj), Billy Murphy for Beale (49mins), Cormac Delaney for C Delaney (55mins).

ARLES-KILLEEN: Michael Leigh; James Mahon, Enda McDonald, Barry Miller; Paul McDonald, Shane Julian, Niall O’Rourke; Eamon Mahon, Arnie Mahon; Billy O’Loughlin, Brian McDonald, Richard Dunne; Jason Enright, Donie Brennan, Billy Brennan. Subs: Paul Garrigan for B Brennan (35mins, inj), Joe Mulhare for O’Loughlin (45mins, inj), Brian Kennedy for E McDonald (48mins).

REF: Eddie Whelan (Killeshin)

[TheBrownDog]

Stradbally are now in the county final vs Portlaoise.

Good luck Colm!

Exiled stars steer Stradbally into Laois decider
02 October 2007
Original Article (http://www.hoganstand.com/laois/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=84108)

Brisbane Lions star Colm Begley, along with former Laois player Larry Keenan who has been exiled in Chicago, turned in big performances as Stradbally defeated last year’s finalists Arles-Killeen by 0-10 to 1-5 to qualify for the Laois SFC final under the O’Moore Park floodlights.

Begley scored a massive point from a sideline kick, while Keenan made a huge contribution following his introduction at midfield in place of the Darragh Mulhall after 16 minutes.

Arles-Killeen were hoping that their highly-rated forwards ’Beano’ McDonald, Donie Brennan and Jason Enright would give them a vital edge, but they got no space whatsoever from the tight-marking Stradbally defence.

Stradbally led by 0-4 to 0-2 at the interval and they extended their lead on the restart with points from Colm Kelly, Gary Kavanagh and Darragh McEvoy. Arles-Killeen were handed a lifeline when Shane Julian goaled in the closing stages, but Stradbally held on to set up a final meeting against either Portlaoise or Mountmellick.

[Grimreepah]

Link (http://www.hoganstand.com/Laois/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=84477)

Begley wants to end career with Laois
10 October 2007

Brisbane Lions star Colm Begley wants to return home and win an All-Ireland title with his native Laois - but not for another few years at least.

Begley, who will line out for Stradbally in Sunday’s Laois SFC final against Portlaoise, aims to forge a successful career in Australian Rules before returning home for good at the age of 29.

"The ideal for me would be to play out there for eight, nine years, make a massive career for myself, buy loads of cars and houses," he explained.

"I’d sell them off and come over for 29 and start playing some football for Laois if I am good enough, and win an All-Ireland - that’s the dream.

"In my head, it still could happen if I keep on working over there. I believe Laois will win an All-Ireland at some stage. I just hope they hold off until I get back!"

The 2003 All-Ireland minor winner has made a major impact since joining the Brisbane Lions, and played in 20 of their 22 games last season. With the new AFL season not set to get underway until next month, Begley is enjoying his time back home but could be in a dilemma if Stradbally end up reaching the Leinster club final as he’s due to return to Australia in three weeks’ time.

He joked: "If we get to the Leinster final, I might tell them I’ve missed the flight. If we won it, you’d have to celebrate it as well."

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